This Hispanic Heritage Month, the City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Hispanic employees in the aviation industry. Meet Edgar Vesga, the Director of Air Service Development and Cargo Services for the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE).
For the past two years, Vesga has focused on expanding, retaining, and attracting air service routes and increasing cargo volume while maintaining effective working relationships with aviation organizations, logistical firms, carriers, and other airports. Vesga holds a double master’s degree in public relations and healthcare communications from the University of Houston. His professional journey began in the healthcare industry, where he held several high positions in medical-related institutions. Despite the apparent differences, Vesga saw a clear connection between healthcare and aviation because both are centered around people. “It was a challenge for me to make a difference in a new industry,” he said. This perspective led him to a successful career shift to aviation.
Vesga, a proud representative of his Columbian, American, and European heritage, often refers to himself as a "world citizen." His commitment to diversity is not just a personal belief, but a professional mission. He takes pride in walking through PHL's terminals and guiding guests to their desired destinations, fostering a sense of inclusivity and unity.
At the airports, Vesga values the Office of Business Diversity and Accessibility's cultural sensitivity. He appreciates the introduction of "I Speak" pins, which airport employees wear to indicate their language fluency. Vesga's ability to speak English, Spanish, Italian, German, and French allows him to connect with a diverse range of air partners and passengers, enhancing their airport experience.
Vesga's commitment to diversity and community impact is evident in his work at PHL and PNE. "The most meaningful part of my job is knowing that we’re making a difference to the community we represent,” said Vesga. “It’s about connecting people to the world and creating job opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t exist. For example, the new international routes American Airlines launched in 2024, generated 600 full-time jobs for the community.”
Organizations that focus on cultural awareness peak Vesga’s interest. He’s a proud member of the Pan-American Association of Philadelphia and the Latinidad City Resource Group (CRG).
Vesga’s mother has been a main source of inspiration for him. “My father passed away when my siblings and I were kids,” said Vesga. "My mother ensured we were all educated and became contributing members of society.”
His goal at the airports is to ensure guests choose Philadelphia as their global gateway to the world. He strives to create a welcoming atmosphere for all passengers he encounters and stakeholders he meets.
“I’m glad I’m an immigrant and that English is my fourth language,” said Vesga. “We should embrace everyone, with all the differences and similarities. It’s a good opportunity to highlight contributions and what makes us unique and different. It’s about recognizing the community's needs and looking at how to support them in the future. It’s humbling because you realize that our diversity makes Philadelphia great.”
